A long-running feud over a hedge has left a couple facing a £95,000 legal bill.

Jean and Paul Brough have been at loggerheads with their neighbours at Middle Drive, Darras Hall, Ponteland, over moving the leylandii hedge which separates their homes.

The row began four years ago when Mr Brough tried to cut down the trees. But neighbours Dr Patricia Smith and Dr Barry Hutchinson said the hedge belonged to them and took Mr Brough to Newcastle County Court.

The Broughs lost the initial case in 2001. Undeterred, they took the matter to London's Court of Appeal where it was yesterday dismissed, leaving them with a £95,000 bill.